A Study on the Evaluation of Industrial Solid Waste Management Approaches in Some Industries in Aba, South Eastern Nigeria

Industrial solid waste is a serious health concern in Aba, South East Nigeria. This study was undertaken to assess the approaches of some industries toward some aspects of waste management in Aba. Interviews, observation and questionnaires administered to industry executives and waste managers were used to generate data for the study. The result from the field research showed that majority(47.39%) of the solid wastes stream were compostable while far less (4.69-9.90%) recyclable waste were generated. The result revealed that open ground was the most prominent storage facility used and only 42.50% of the industries undertake some form of treatment of waste before storage. The industries studied employ more than one method of waste disposal and it was mostly carried out with open trunk and wheel barrows. Waste contractors were engaged by 52.50% of the industries and wastes were equally deposited in dump sites (45.00%), rivers (12.50%), composited (20.00%)or incinerated(25.00%). There was inadequate provision of protective measure in most of the industry. The respondents acknowledged enjoying medical check which was however not regular and in some cases in poorly equipped health centers and drug stores. The awareness of respondents on the consequences of improper waste management was high (75.50%) while the level of attendance of health and safety treatment training was average (46.25%), however, none of the industries had health policy plan. It is recommended for the improvement of the function of the waste management regulatory body, Abia State Environmental Protection Agency(ASEPA) and commitment of the industries and the general public toward industrial solid waste management.